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Profar still undecided about playing in Classic

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SURPRISE, Ariz. -- Rangers infielder Jurickson Profar said he is still undecided about playing in the World Baseball Classic for the Netherlands. Profar, who is from Curacao, is on the provisional roster for the Netherlands and has to make a decision sometime next week.

"It's tough," Profar said. "There are a lot of things to think about."

Profar admitted he is getting pressure back home to play in the tournament. But he also knows that staying in camp would increase his chances of winning a spot on the Opening Day roster in a meaningful utility role.

"That's going to be important," Profar said.

The Rangers are letting Profar make the decision and said they will support him either way.

Profar is not going to play regularly for the Rangers unless there is an injury. He is effectively blocked by shortstop Elvis Andrus and second baseman Ian Kinsler. But the Rangers will consider keeping Profar on the team if they can find a meaningful utility role for him.

That is probably going to be a long shot. The Rangers are far more likely to send Profar to Triple-A Round Rock so he can play regularly rather than having him sit on the bench too much.

If there is a chance to make the team, Profar said he wants to take advantage of it.

"I just want to be here and do everything I can to be here," Profar said. "I just have to play and then show them what I can do. Then they have to choose."